"If you are sadly convinced that our country is hopelessly divided along political and cultural lines, then I strongly urge you to read the book that is guaranteed to give you hope." (Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky)

"What is America and who are the people who make up its heart and soul? In 50 States of Mind, Ryan Bernsten gives us a window into our vast complexity, how we are different and yet alike. In his journey through all 50 states, Bernsten talked to people from all walks of life and discovered a basic decency and love of country that prevailed in cities and towns across the nation. At a time of depressing headlines and news stories, 50 States of Mind provides a welcome antidote and restores hope that our country will be alright in the end." (Gov. Christine Todd Whitman)

"Any politician, whether aspiring or actively in office, would do well to heed the words of 50 States of Mind...the book's much-needed prescription for angst and depression provides hope and a sense of purpose to modern America's struggles which is largely missing from newspaper headlines, but encouragingly present in this book. It considers the influences that polarize America, the nation's hopeful possibilities, and the pulse of a people living, breathing, and interacting to create a new American story." (The Midwest Book Review)